US persuades Hungary not to block extension of EU sanctions against russia

Hungary planned to veto the extension of sanctions, citing, among other things, Donald Trump's return to the White House. However, the latter later threatened russia with new restrictions if the kremlin did not agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine.

In particular, according to interlocutors, Rubio called Szijjarto and urged him not to undermine the EU's sanctions policy, which eventually helped convince Budapest to back down.

At the same time, Trump may change his tactics at any time and propose to ease sanctions restrictions. In this case, the EU will lose leverage in its attempts to influence Hungary.

As of now, there is no consensus in the EU to ease sanctions against russia, regardless of the decision of the White House.

Source: Politico